Estimating the size and structure of Pine Marten populations using non-invasive genetic sampling

摘要: The pine marten is one of six mustelid species currently established in Ireland along with the badger, otter, stoat, ferret and American mink. ancient origin Irish unknown but it was possibly introduced into Bronze Age as a commodity for its luxurious pelt. legally protected 1976 after centuries persecution extensive deforestation island hunting fur or predator control. current conservation status considered to be favourable population seems expanding range from core populations mid-west, midlands south-east country. However, these has not been assessed very difficult evaluate based on traditional survey methods. This study aimed develop methods required census non-invasive genetic sampling hair faeces. Real-time PCR which enabled rapid sex identification non-invasively collected samples were developed either hybridisation specific probes, differences melting-temperature between amplified DNA sequences less than 150 nucleotides length. Genetic variability at 20 microsatellite loci. number alleles per locus (2.29) expected heterozygosity (0.35) low significant bottleneck signature detected using set 41 road-kill individuals. historical decline distribution abundance therefore had an impact diversity. Despite this no structuring identified regions, suggesting dispersal ability sufficient maintain panmictic population. A two then conducted by scats project. Species success rates high both sample types (88-100%), individual more reliable plucked (94%) (38%). Nine total sites genotyping eight Independent live trapping surveys carried out validated approach same individuals captured Remotely powerful method can used inventory magnitude diversity marten, other similar life history such stone identify any potentially important towards resources should targeted future.